The world’s oldest and most famous wine auction will now be organized by Sotheby’s, at least for the next five years. The Hospices Civils de Beaune announced in a press release last week that they have accepted Sotheby’s proposal. Before, auction house Christie’s used to organise the event.
The auction, held every year since 1859, can include up to 500 lots of wine from 60 hectares of the best Burgundy appellations in Beaune. According to a statement from François Poher, Head of the Hospices Civils de Beaune, the proceeds from the auction are used to “preserve the centuries-old character and heritage of our hospital institution and further strengthen its capacity to invest in the service of the people of our region.” Following tradition, the Hospices de Beaune also supports a charity every year and donates the profits from the sale of the “President's Pièce” of wine to the selected charity.
Jamie Ritchie, Worldwide Head, Sotheby’s Wine, said: “There is no greater honour for our international team than to organise the most famous and oldest wine auction in the world. Since 1859, this sale has set benchmark pricing for the new vintage in Burgundy, acting as an economic gauge for the region.”
Richie also placed an emphasis on Sotheby’s aims of drawing more attention to the important work of the Hospices as well as reaching more participants who are unable to attend in-person through the use of Sotheby’s “digital reach and innovation” and by using their “innovative digital platform,” all while focusing on preserving the historical significance of the Hospices and the auction. The 161st Edition of the auction will take place on 21 November.
